Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Questions
Eye Candy Aviation specializes in aircraft leasing solutions, particularly for flight schools. We offer flexible leasing terms, maintenance support, and aircraft sourcing to help flight schools efficiently manage their fleets.
You can reach us through:
• Email: contact@eyecandyaviation.com
• Website: www.eyecandyaviation.com
Aircraft Leasing
Our leasing program includes a set number of Hobbs hours per month, with flexibility to add additional hours. A refundable deposit is required, and delivery is typically one month from receipt of the deposit.
Our standard minimum is 50 hours per month, but we are open to adjustments based on fleet utilization and operational needs. Contact us to discuss a customized plan.
We offer competitive pricing that includes additional value such as major maintenance coverage, flexible lease terms, and fleet management support. Contact us for a comparison breakdown.
Our minimum hours are set to ensure optimal fleet utilization, but we understand that every operator has unique needs. If you feel our minimums don’t align with your operations, let’s discuss a customized plan.
Flight schools are responsible for:
• Insurance coverage for leased aircraft.
• Performing all required inspections during the lease term.
• Routine maintenance and upkeep of the aircraft.
• Operating aircraft under FAA and all legal standards.
We handle major maintenance, including engine and propeller overhauls. Additionally, we assist with sourcing hard-to-find parts and troubleshooting complex maintenance issues.
The hull value for most of our aircraft is $200,000.
Seasonal & Financial Considerations
We recognize that winter months can be challenging for flight operations. Many operators use this time for major maintenance, reducing wear and tear on owned aircraft. Let’s discuss ways to optimize your lease to fit seasonal demand.
Aircraft Preferences & Equipment
We currently offer a mix of aircraft, including Cessna and Piper models. If Piper aircraft are your preference, we can explore availability or leasing options tailored to your needs.
Yes! We can accommodate requests for G1000-equipped aircraft through our G3X program. Let us know your requirements, and we’ll find the right fit for you.
Deposit & Payment
Yes, a refundable deposit is required at the full execution of the lease.
The deposit is directly linked to the insurance deductible. If you’d like a lower deposit, we can explore options for adjusting the deductible. Let’s discuss a structure that works best for you.
The deposit will be returned at lease expiration or termination, less any applicable deductions for damages or outstanding obligations.
Yes, in the event of aircraft loss or damage, the deposit may be applied toward:
• The hull insurance deductible if the aircraft is lost or damaged beyond repair.
• Repair costs if the damage is determined to be the responsibility of the lessee.
If a lessee defaults on the lease (e.g., failure to make payments, misuse, or abandonment of the aircraft), the deposit will be forfeited, along with any other legal remedies available to Eye Candy Aviation.
Maintenance & Return Conditions
Flight schools must perform all necessary inspections and routine upkeep as outlined in the lease agreement. Major maintenance, such as engine overhauls, is managed by Eye Candy Aviation.
While some of our aircraft may be older, they are meticulously maintained under our comprehensive maintenance program. Our data shows that our fleet’s reliability meets or exceeds industry standards.
We understand this concern and are open to structuring lease agreements where maintenance responsibilities are clearly defined. Let’s explore an arrangement that aligns with your business model.
At the end of the lease, the aircraft must be returned in the agreed-upon condition. Any outstanding payments or assessed damages will be deducted from the deposit.
Partnership & Support
We aim to meet the specific needs of our clients. If you have particular requests, please contact us to discuss customization options.
Beyond leasing aircraft, we provide maintenance assistance, help source hard-to-find parts, and offer expert troubleshooting support to ensure smooth operations.
We provide a list of available aircraft in our fleet. Please contact us or visit our website to view the options.
Any aircraft lease agreement is strictly non-refundable and non-amendable. While this option may reflect preferential pricing, the lease is final upon verbal or written confirmation and may not be cancelled, modified, or rescheduled for any reason, including but not limited to changes in dates, routing, or aircraft type. No refunds, credits, or adjustments will be provided in the event of cancellation or requested changes. These terms are established and enforced by the aircraft operator and are not subject to negotiation or alteration by any intermediary or third party. Only ECA management may modify this policy.
Time Building Program
Our Time-Building Program is a structured, professional hour-building option designed for pilots who want to build time efficiently while operating under clear standards. The program operates under a true dry lease, giving pilots flexibility, transparency, and control over their flying while maintaining high operational expectations.
This program operates under a true dry lease.
That means:
• You are leasing the aircraft only
• Fuel, oil, and cleaning supplies are NOT included in the hourly rate
• Instruction is not required and, if used, is arranged separately
• Pilots maintain operational control of the aircraft
- Cessna 172M and Cessna 172N (core time-building fleet)
- Cessna R182 (advanced / high-performance time building for qualified pilots)
• 100 hours
• 250 hours
• 500 hours and over
Each pilot purchases their own block of time. Larger block commitments (500+ hours) are structured on a case-by-case basis.
No. Your hourly rate is the same whether you fly solo or with another qualified pilot.
• Purchases their own block of time
• Pays the same hourly rate
• Logs 100% of the Hobbs time in accordance with FAA guidelines
If two qualified pilots fly together:
• Both pilots must be approved for the program
• One pilot is designated as PIC
• Each pilot logs 100% of the flight time
• Each pilot is billed against their own block
No. Pilots are responsible for selecting their own time-building partners. Whiskey Romeo may facilitate informal introductions, but does not guarantee pairing.
All pilots must carry non-owned aircraft insurance meeting program requirements, including:
• Minimum $200,000 hull value
• Compliance with applicable open pilot clause or experience-based requirements
Minimum qualifications vary by aircraft.
For the R182:
• Higher total flight time required
• Complex/high-performance experience required
• IFR is NOT required for VFR operations
• Instructor-assisted flying may be used to meet solo minimums
Yes. Instruction is not included in the time-building rate and must be arranged separately.
• Instructor must carry instructor insurance meeting Whiskey Romeo standards
• Instructor arrangements are made directly between the pilot and instructor
Yes. Temporary alternate basing is a major advantage of this program and may be approved for qualified pilots.
• Subject to management approval
• Typically for larger block commitments
• Requires approved airports/facilities
• May require a larger deposit and additional requirements
- 100 hours: approximately 1 month
- 250 hours: approximately 3 months
- 500+ hours: timeframe determined case-by-case
A good rule of thumb is averaging approximately 5 flight hours per day.
Block time is prepaid and non-refundable except as outlined in the lease agreement.
There is $5,000 refundable deposit per block time agreement.